Boston is a major city with the feel of a much smaller place. Each neighborhood has its own style, history and places to explore. Many popular areas are close together, but Boston’s old streets and busy transit system can be confusing for first-time visitors.
Learning how to get around Boston before your trip can save time and make each day easier. The best choice may change based on the weather, your destination and how far you plan to travel.
For most Boston visitors, the easiest way to get around is to combine walking with the MBTA. Bluebikes work well for short trips in pleasant weather, while taxis, rideshare services and reserved cars are helpful when you have luggage or need to arrive at a set time.
This guide covers the main ways to travel around Boston. Simplified can also help plan your trip, make reservations and organize the details of your visit.
1. Walk Through Boston’s Neighborhoods
Walking is one of the best ways to explore central Boston. Many well-known neighborhoods and landmarks are closer together than they may appear on a map.
You can walk past the brownstones of Back Bay, visit the Public Garden, explore Beacon Hill or follow the Freedom Trail through some of the city’s most historic areas. Walking also makes it easier to stop at local shops, restaurants and parks along the way.
Comfortable shoes are important because Boston has brick sidewalks, hills and uneven streets. Check the weather before leaving your hotel, especially during the winter or on a hot summer day.
2. Ride the MBTA
Boston’s public transportation system is known as the MBTA, or simply “the T.” It includes subway lines, buses, trolleys, commuter rail trains and ferries.
The subway is useful for reaching popular areas such as Back Bay, Fenway, Downtown Boston, Cambridge and the Seaport. Each subway line has its own color, and some stations connect to more than one line.
The MBTA now offers contactless payment options on many services. Riders can tap a contactless credit card, phone or wearable device where Tap to Ride is accepted. CharlieCards and other fare choices are also available. Check the MBTA trip planner before leaving so you can review your route, payment choices and current service notices.
Public transportation can be helpful during busy weekends and large events when traffic and parking become more difficult. If you are planning a holiday visit, explore these things to do in Boston during Labor Day weekend.
3. Use Bluebikes
Bluebikes is Metro Boston’s public bike-share program. Bikes are available at hundreds of stations across Boston and nearby communities. Visitors can use the Bluebikes app to find a station, purchase a pass and check the number of bikes and open docks available.
Bluebikes can be a good choice for short trips during pleasant weather. Popular riding areas include paths along the Charles River and routes that connect Boston with Cambridge.
Boston streets can be busy, so riders should follow local traffic laws, use bike lanes when available and wear a helmet. Before beginning a ride, check the route and make sure you feel comfortable biking in city traffic.
4. Take a Taxi or Rideshare
Taxis and rideshare services can be useful when you have luggage, are traveling late at night or need to reach a place that is not close to a subway station.
Travel time can change quickly based on traffic, road work and major events. Leave extra time when traveling to Logan Airport, South Station, a show or a sporting event.
Some hotels also work with local car services. A reserved car may be helpful for airport transportation, business travel or an important dinner reservation.
5. Try a Pedicab
Pedicabs operate in busy parts of Boston during warmer weather. They are often found near Fenway Park, Back Bay and popular event areas.
A pedicab can be a fun choice for a short ride, especially after a game or event. Ask about the price before beginning the trip so you know what to expect.
6. Travel by Ferry
Boston Harbor provides another way to see and travel around the city. Ferries connect parts of Boston with several waterfront destinations. Seasonal sightseeing boats and water transportation may also be available.
A ferry ride can turn transportation into part of the day’s experience. Schedules may change by season, so confirm the route and return time before making plans.
7. Decide if You Need a Rental Car
Most visitors do not need a car for a trip focused on central Boston. Parking can be expensive, and traffic may make short trips take longer than expected.
A rental car may be useful if your plans include places outside the city, such as Cape Cod or other parts of New England. It may be easier to pick up the car when you are ready to leave Boston instead of keeping it during your entire stay.
Choose Transportation Based on Your Plans
No single option is best for every part of a Boston trip. Walking may work well for a day in Beacon Hill and Back Bay. The T may be easier for a trip to Fenway or Cambridge. A taxi or reserved car may be the better choice when you have luggage or a set arrival time.
Look at your plans for each day and group nearby stops together. This can reduce travel time and give you more time to enjoy the city.
Seasonal plans may also affect how you travel. Our guide to fall activities in Boston can help you build an itinerary for a cooler-weather visit. Families coming to the city for commencement can also review these tips for planning a Boston or Cambridge college graduation visit.
Let Simplified Plan the Details of Your Boston Visit
Planning a trip takes more than booking a hotel. You may also need restaurant reservations, tickets, transportation and a schedule that makes sense for each day.
Simplified can research your destination, make travel reservations, arrange rental cars and help organize your itinerary. Our local knowledge can also help you choose activities and understand how much time you will need to travel between them.
Explore how a personal travel concierge can simplify your trip.
Learn more about Simplified Travel and contact our team for help planning your visit to Boston.